Part three of the Glenmorangie Pioneering Collection Sample Pack.
Nectar D'Or is finished for two years in Sauternes casks (French white wine) and is the most expensive of the extra matured range of Glenmorangie. It comes in at 46% ABV, is non chill filtered and is a natural color of golden honey.
Very strong vanilla on the nose with citrus notes of lemon and lime. White wine notes and something reminiscent of marshmallows. Furniture polish, but not in a bad way. As it develops lightly toasted oak appears along with oranges and tangerines. It's basically a more citrusy and intense version of the original 10 YO.
The palate mimics the nose with strong vanilla and citrus. There is a surprising amount of spice if you hold it on the tongue for more than about 10 seconds. It really helps to bolster the flavors. Rounding it out is a hint of salted caramel.
The mouthfeel is very dry initially, but oddly will become mouthwatering the more you drink. The finish is medium length and dry. Hints of honey and ginger finish it off.
My first impression of this single malt was that it was lackluster and underwhelming. The more I let it sit in the glass, the more I nose it and drank it the more I was able to appreciate its subtle nuances. It's elegant yet bright on the nose and spicy enough on the palate to keep you interested and coming back for more. Although very different, I would put this about on par with the Lasanta, but not close to the Quinta Ruban. I would give this a full 4 stars/rings but the fact that it's the most expensive in the extra matured range, but not the best one of the three, drops it a little. 3.75. Cheers
Review is a few months old from Barreled.